BennettStrong Foundation Gala Raises Money for N/IICU Parent Survival Kits

The BennettStrong Foundation held its inaugural gala on Feb. 24 at the Northampton Valley Country Club and raised funds for N/IICU parent survival kits; a project that the foundation is working with in conjunction with Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

Photo by Nick Pulos
David A. Munson, MD.

BennettStrong raised over $6,000 from the event as the foundation hit its goal to start implementing parent survival kits. Phase one of the kits will include a journal and pen that parents can use write down thoughts, doctor notes or even questions they may have about their child. The foundation is hoping that the journals will help parents strengthen their abilities to bond with their baby and advocate for their child with the child’s medical team.

“On behalf of the BennettStrong Foundation we want to extend a heart-felt thank you to all those that attended our inaugural gala,” said co-founder Mary Pellegrino. “We are extremely grateful for your support and contribution to such a worthy cause close to our hearts. Without your help we wouldn’t be able to make the parent survival kits a reality.”

The night featured keynote speaker David A. Munson, MD. Dr. Munson serves as the Medical Director for the Newborn/Infant Intensive Care Unit at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. He spoke highly of the importance of the parent survival kits stating that the Foundation ‘will have a profound impact on thousands of families in the N/IICU.’

Kevin Casey, the voice of the Philadelphia Union and LaSalle basketball, served as emcee of the event and kept the guests entertained throughout the night. Great Big House provided musical entertainment for the evening, as guests were able to mingle on the dance floor. Guests described an incredibly energetic and celebratory energy throughout the night.

Throughout the night gala attendees had the opportunity to win a variety of raffle baskets by generous donors within the community.

The mission of the BennettStrong Foundation is to provide support to families of medically complex children. For more information visit our website at bennettstrong.org or stay up-to-date with the foundation by liking us on Facebook and following us on Twitter.

 

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